Integrated infusion management system

ABSTRACT

An integrated infusion management system provides for stable support of components attached to the system, even when the system is mobile. The system is optionally a mobility assist or walker for a patient who is attached to any number of medical components. A central trunk connects to a two-sided base that does not interfere with patient motion. The trunk may be angled with respect to vertical and oriented to support medical components in a configuration that is tip-resistant. The system is optionally deployable to facilitate conversion between a compact storage configuration and a stable deployed configuration. In an embodiment, additional deployable features include holding arms for holding various medical components, wheels, mobility arms and handles. Also provided is a novel wheel system with deployable wheels and methods associated with providing compact storage of any one or more of the systems presented herein.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/961,834, filed on Dec. 20, 2007, which claims benefit of provisionalpatent application 60/883,205 filed Jan. 3, 2007, each of which ishereby incorporated by reference to the extent it is not inconsistentwith the present disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention is generally in the field of a stable support standcapable of providing medical support to a patient and is optionallymobile and readily maneuverable by a patient to whom a medical device isconnected. Disclosed herein are aspects related to a convenient andreliable systems for intravenous fluid supply systems that are capableof folding into a compact storage configuration, and can provide patientmobility assistance, such as a combination walker and infusionmanagement system (“IMS”). In particular, the IMS is a radicalimprovement and departure over traditional intravenous (“IV”) polescurrently in use.

It is important for patient rehabilitation and recovery that a patientbe able to walk, even when connected to a medical component, after amedical procedure (see U.S. Pat. No. 4,332,378). A walking patient,however, presents special safety problems in terms of ensuring thesupporting pole is stable and does not tip or hinder the patient orcaregiver when it is moving with the patient. This safety concern is notadequately addressed by current IV poles that have a vertical poleconnected to a wheeled base. The IMS provided herein is designed toensure medical components (including relatively heavy components) areeasily attached to the IMS, and the IMS is extremely stable,maneuverable, and optionally capable of providing reliable physicalsupport to a walking or moving patient. In addition, an IMS of thepresent invention is capable of folding into an extremely compactconfiguration when not in use.

Although the medical products and healthcare industries have undergonerapid development, the basic IV pole has remained relatively unchangedfor most of the last century. They remain rigid, heavy, difficult toroll, unwieldy, ugly, easily tipped and nearly impossible toconveniently store when not in use. The IV poles known in the artgenerally require two-handed manipulation to appropriately configure thepole height to a specific patient and oftentimes the pole does notreliably lock at a certain height. The wheels of the poles often stoprolling or catch (such as on a rug or uneven surface transition betweenrooms), increasing the risk of pole-tipping, potentially causing seriousinjury and damage to valuable attached medication and equipment.

Another major drawback to the IV poles currently used is that they arevery difficult to store. Generally, when not in use they are clusteredtogether in a storeroom (or an unused patient room converted to astorage room), or at the end of a hall. This clustering results in ajumble of devices that may be difficult to access when a pole is needed,as well as occupying valuable hospital space that could be betterutilized. This is not a simple problem because a typical hospital likelyowns hundreds of IV poles. Even in smaller settings, such as doctors'offices, the presence of only a couple of IV poles can present seriousstorage issues.

Wheeled pole support systems used in clinical settings are generallyknown in the art (e.g., see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,056,249, 4,744,536,4,892,279, 4,725,027, 6,619,599, 5,772,162, 5,458,305, 4,905,944, U.S.Pub. No. 2005/0139736). One common limitation of each of those polesystems is that the central vertical pole configuration in combinationwith the conventional base structure is inherently unstable andill-suited for holding heavy medical components. Components aregenerally connected to the IV pole by clamping or connecting them to thecentral vertical pole. This configuration is more prone to tippingbecause the center of gravity inherently shifts toward the perimeter ofthe base as equipment and accessories are added. In addition, the longlever arm and the height of suspended components result in a large leverarm which acts to exacerbate the inherent instability of the system,especially in view of how such systems are maneuvered. Accordingly, theconfiguration of the IV poles known in the art is prone to tipping,especially for a moving system whose wheels have a tendency to catch onsurface disturbances.

IV poles currently used are also extremely ineffective walkers and donot provide any mobility assistance to a user. To walk with an IV pole,the patient grips the central pole with one hand, and cannot rely on thepole for support because the pole can easily and rapidly roll in anunwanted or unpredicted direction. This reflects the fact that aforce-couple is created by having to maneuver the IV pole with only onehand, where the pole is generally located beside the user, and in adirection that is not inline with the direction of motion of the user.Therefore, the inertia of the IV pole is not inline with the directionof motion of the user. This creates the aforementioned force couple.Accordingly, the user must exert additional force/effort to move the IVpole and has a reduced ability to correct the IV pole in the event ittips or begins to tip. This problem increases as the mass or weight ofthe IV pole increases, such as by the connection of medically-neededcomponents such as infusion pumps, for example. In addition, the baseconfiguration that contains the wheels can interfere with patientwalking and are easily caught on cracks (e.g., elevators) or otherdisturbance, further increasing instability.

Ambulatory patient support stands are generally known in the art (U.S.Pat. Nos. 6,969,031, 4,332,378). Those stands, however, still sufferfrom being inherently unsteady and unwieldy in that the wheeled baseremains attached to a central pole and the patient still relies on thecentral pole for support. Accordingly, those systems remain unstable,unable to hold multiple heavy components, and do not easily fold forstorage or deploy for use.

The fact that IV poles are inherently terribly designed for providingwalking support is recognized in U.S. Pat. No. 5,704,577 where awalker-IV stand coupler is disclosed for connecting a traditionalfour-wheeled walker with an IV pole. That system, however, is unwieldyand complicated, requiring three different components that occupy asignificant amount of space.

Walkers known in the art (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,479,953, 5,411,044) have beenadapted to receive an IV pole and/or IV solution bags. Those walkers,however, are relatively bulky four-wheeled systems that are not easilystored and do not have the capability and features of the presentinvention. Other walkers that may be collapsible for storage (e.g, U.S.Pat. No. 4,251,044) are not able to hold multiple heavy components, donot provide reliable physical support for an ambulating patient and/orare relatively difficult for a patient to maneuver.

Portable IV stands for field-use (U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,807,837, 6,983,915)and other types of stands having special caster wheel mechanisms (U.S.Pub. No. 2003/0178538, U.S. Pat. No. 2,794,612 for tripod with casterwheel mechanisms) are known in the art. Those stands, however, do notaddress the need for stable, easily deployable patient mobilityassistance systems and infusion stands provided herein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Conventional IV pole systems suffer from stability and/or storagedeficiencies. Provided herein are a variety of geometricalconfigurations that provide increased stability and resistance totipping under a variety of load and use conditions. Another featuredisclosed herein is the capability of storing the variously configuredsystems in a compact and space-saving manner that is both convenient andeasy to use. In addition, any of the systems provided herein are simpleto maneuver and can assist with patient mobility, even for patientsconnected to any number of medical devices, including relatively heavydevices. These various one or more improvements are accomplished byradically redesigning the traditional IV pole geometry into an infusionmanagement system (“IMS”) having enhanced capabilities and featureswhile being aesthetically pleasing. The base geometry generally providesa relatively large base area without interfering with either acaregiver's or patient movement. This is accomplished by providing atwo-sided base having an open (e.g., notional) side across from a vertexfrom which the each of the two sides extend.

A safe, attractive and modern-looking system is important to helpencourage patients to leave the bed and exercise by walking, therebyhastening recovery time after surgical or medical procedures.Optionally, the IMS is folded into a compact storage position forconvenient storage, thereby minimizing the storage footprint when theIMS is not needed without sacrificing rapid availability and deploymentwhen needed.

In an embodiment, the geometry of the IMS ensures that they stably rolland are extremely tip-resistant. The IMS can rapidly deploy (e.g.,fold-out) to receive any number of components, irrespective of mass,that can be connected to a patient. In addition, the IMS is readilycollapsible into a compact configuration for storage or is capable ofnesting with other IMS to provide compact storage. Any of the systemsand devices presented herein are optionally configured as a walker tosupport a walking patient or as a mobility assist device for providingeasy and safe maneuvering for a patient. The various number ofinnovative features include one or more of deployable wheels, deployablebase and trunk configuration, multiple deployable component supportingarms, holding arms, deployable holders, cable management system,integrated ambulation (e.g., walker or mobility assist) capability,storability, power supply, power strip and the flexibility toaccommodate various accessories and/or upgrades. Accessories, such ascalculators, written materials, device for dosage calculations, smallinstrument tables, light and light clips, reading light attachments,oxygen canister holder, wheel chair attachment, diagnostic equipmentmounts are easily connected to the system.

In an embodiment, the invention is generally a system for holding one ormore components that is extremely stable, even under heavy loads, andreadily folds into a compact storage configuration. Similarly, thesystem is able to easily and quickly deploy into a position ready toreceive one or more components, including relatively heavy components.In an embodiment, the system is an Infusion Management System (IMS)useful in a medical or clinical setting for administering intravenous(IV) fluids or other medical treatments that are performed on mobilepersons and immobile persons and may be associated with IVadministration, such as pumps, power sources, lights, oxygenadministration/monitoring. In a specific embodiment, the IMS also is awalker that provides physical support to a patient that is walking andoptionally connected to one or more medical components. Alternatively,the IMS may be a mobility assistance device, in that the system does nothinder a patient's ability to maneuver but instead is easily steerableand helps facilitate (rather than conventional systems that hinder)ambulation. The walker feature of the IMS is particularly useful as itprovides an extremely stable platform upon which the patient can relyfor support, even when heavy medical components are attached to the IMSand connected either directly or indirectly to the patient, without aconcern of tipping or unexpected movements that are associated withtraditional “straight-line” wheeled IV poles known in the art.

In an embodiment, the stability of the IMS is obtained by configuringthe system to have a relatively large base footprint and ensuring thatmedical components attached to the IMS are located over a central regionof the base footprint, in contrast to IV poles currently used, where thebottom base is circular and relatively small (e.g., smaller than an“arm's length” so the patient may grasp the central trunk). In anembodiment, the base comprises two base arms that are connected eitherdirectly or indirectly to the bottom of a trunk, wherein the baseprovides a relatively large (and therefore stable) footprint withoutinterfering or obstructing the mobility or movement of a patient whomaneuvers or walks with the IMS. This is achieved by having an“open-ended” base. Open-ended refers to one end of each of the base armsbeing free from connections (to from a notional edge of the basefootprint that connects these free ends), with a vertex opposite thenotional edge from which each of the base arms extend. In an aspect thetrunk is vertical. In an aspect the trunk is angled relative tovertical. A large base footprint is obtained by constructing each of thetwo base arms to have a relatively long length and join at the trunk toform a base apex angle at the vertex region. In the embodiment whereeach of the base arms are straight, the base footprint is a trianglehaving a footprint area, A_(F)=½*b*h, where b is the separation distanceof the ends of the base arms and h=L*cos(α/2), where L is the length ofthe base arm, and α is the base apex angle. The particular dimensionsare not critical, so long as the system remains stable and is capable ofbeing maneuvered by a patient. Accordingly, in an embodiment thedimensions are such that a deployed device move through a door opening.Typical base arm lengths are between about 25 to 30 inches (64 cm to 76cm), or any value therein. Typically, the base arms are separated by amaximum distance that is less than the width of a door in which thesystem must traverse, such as a conventional door width of about 36inches (92 cm). From these parameters, the base apex angle or “vertexangle” α can be calculated.

The trunk to which medical components are connected (either directly bya holder or indirectly via a holding arm), is optionally angled in adirection so that the trunk extends over the base footprint, therebyensuring the center of gravity of the deployed IMS, including an IMS towhich multiple heavy medical components are attached, is located overthe base footprint. A center of gravity over a relatively large basefootprint that does not interfere with a user's stride, results in anextremely stable system that is very difficult to tip, but capable ofeasy and reliable maneuverability. A conventional circular basefootprint, in contrast, must be rather small (e.g., certainly less thana patient's arm length) to not interfere with the patient's stride,thereby resulting in inherent instability.

In the embodiment where the IMS is deployable, the system comprises atrunk for holding one or more medical components, and a base comprisinga first base arm and a second base arm, wherein one end of each of thebase arms is pivotally connected to the trunk bottom end, wherein in abase-deployed configuration the trunk optionally forms an acute anglerelative to the base; and in a base-storage configuration each of thebase arms pivot to a position parallel to the trunk. The IMS is designedso that the trunk angle and position relative to the base footprintensures the trunk is located over the base footprint, and preferably acentral region of the base footprint. Alternatively, where the trunk isvertical, an extended vertex region past where the trunk meets the base(e.g., where the extension is distal to the trunk), provides for acenter of mass located over the base footprint, wherein the base thatdefines the base footprint does not interfere with the patient's stride.

Deployable base refers to a base that is capable of being positioned toprovide a stable (e.g., “folded-out” or “deployed”) IMS and is alsocapable of being positioned to provide a compact (e.g., “folded-in” or“stored”) IMS for storage. In an embodiment, in the base storageconfiguration each of the base arms are positioned in a manner that isparallel to the trunk. In this aspect, parallel encompasses pairedsurfaces that are within about 20° of parallel. In an embodiment thebase arms are parallel to the trunk but not touching the trunk. In anembodiment the base arms are parallel to the trunk and touching a trunksurface in at least one axial location. In an embodiment, substantiallythe entire length of the base arm contacts a trunk surface.

In an aspect, the trunk has three major surfaces extending between thetrunk bottom and top ends, a front surface and two side surfaces,wherein each side surface receives a base arm when the system ispositioned in its base storage configuration. In this aspect, a trunksurface has a surface shape that is substantially complementary to abase arm top surface, so that the shaped trunk surface receives one basearm when the system is in the base storage configuration.

In an aspect, the IMS is capable of ambulating over a surface, such asby providing three or more wheels that stably contact the surface“Stably contacting” refers to the device and wheels being situated suchthat the center of gravity of the system is within the base footprintdefined by the points of contact of the at least three wheels and thedevice does not tip under an applied force to the handles and/or whenmedical components are supported by the holders. The IMS is mobile byconnecting three or more wheels to the base, wherein the base comprisesthe base arms and the portion of the trunk bottom surface or vertexregion that is opposed to the surface on which the IMS rests. Forexample, any of the IMS disclosed herein can further comprise a firstwheel connected to the trunk bottom end or to a vertex region formed bythe connection point (e.g., vertex) between the base arms, a secondwheel connected to the first base arm and a third wheel connected to thesecond base arm. Connecting each of three wheels to appropriatepositions on the base results in a stable system that can ambulate overa supporting surface under an applied force, for example a directionalforce applied by a patient and/or medical person. Maximum stability isobtained by connecting the wheels to the end of the base arm that isfurthest from the wheel that is connected to the trunk bottom or vertexregion, or in other words, by maximizing the magnitude of the base areafootprint. This can be further accomplished by locating the wheel in thevertex region that is distal to where the trunk connects to the base.Such a configuration further provides an easily-maneuvered system,wherein the open-ended base footprint does not obstruct or interferewith a patient's stride, in contrast to conventional IV pole bases thatare not open-ended.

In an embodiment, each of the wheels are connected to the system bycasters, such as hubless casters or conventional casters, to facilitateautomatic wheel swiveling that aligns the wheels in the direction fromwhich the system is pushed or pulled. In an embodiment, all (three)wheels swivel allowing the IMS to be easily positioned or moved. Whenthe mobility arms (or “handle arms”) are deployed to their “walkerposition” and are ready to support a person during ambulation, the rearwheels optionally lock in a forward direction. This “locking” preventsthe IMS from uncontrolled shifting toward the side, and facilitates aperson to ambulate in the forward direction. The front wheel under thetrunk continues to caster or swivel which facilitates controllablesteering of the IMS. In an embodiment, the rear wheels are capable ofswiveling when the mobility arms are in a stored position but lock in afixed direction (e.g., do not to swivel) when the mobility arms deploy.In an embodiment, each of the wheels swivel irrespective of the statusof the mobility arms.

Any of the wheel or wheel systems connected to the IMS may be deployableto ensure maximum compactness during storage. When the IMS is not inwalker mode, the wheels may be stored to ensure the IMS remains in afixed position. In this aspect, a deployed wheel is capable of rollingover a supporting surface, and in a storage position the wheel ispositioned such that it does not contact the supporting surface, orcontacts in such a manner that it cannot roll over the surface. In anembodiment, each of the wheels swivel (e.g. capable of “directionalrotation”) when deployed. Directional rotation refers to the wheel beingable to freely swivel to orient in the direction of an applied force.Three swiveling wheels facilitate maximum maneuverability for when thesystem is not supporting a patient in a walker mode. In an alternativeembodiment, only the front wheel is able to swivel when deployed, andthe two rear wheels deploy in a fixed direction. Alternatively, each ofthe wheels deploy in a fixed direction. In an aspect, the second andthird wheels (e.g., the rear wheels) deploy in a direction substantiallyparallel to the forward direction. In this aspect, substantiallyparallel refers to the wheel positioned in a direction that is within20° of true parallel. In an embodiment, the rear two wheels are capableof swiveling when the mobility arms are in a stored position, but lockin a fixed direction when the mobility arms are deployed. This aspect isuseful because in the mobility arm deployed position, the system can beused as a walker and it is important that the rear two wheels areincapable of sudden changes in direction to ensure the walking patientis appropriately supported. This aspect is achieved by a caster-lockingassembly that lockably engages the wheel component that swivels, such asa rotable ring mount connection, when the mobility arms are rotated intoa deployed position.

Any of the ambulatory IMS embodiments can further comprise a pair ofhandles for receiving a force to ambulate or move the IMS. The handlesare optionally pivotally connected to allow the handle to be positionedsubstantially parallel to the base arm for storage when the handle isnot needed and deployed substantially perpendicular to the base arm forreceiving a force from a patient or caregiver when the IMS isambulating. Each handle can have a handle grip configured (e.g.,comfortable rubber material) to receive a force from a hand, forexample. For sanitation reasons, the handles or handle surface on whicha patient's hands are placed may be disposable, thereby facilitatingreplacement as needed.

In an embodiment, the handle further comprises a mobility arm pivotallyconnected to the base arm, a grip joint that connects the handle grip tothe mobility arm, and a handle lock assembly lockably engaged with themobility arm, whereby said mobility arm can be locked in storage ordeployed position. In this embodiment, a release button convenientlypositioned on the IMS, such as on the base arm, is pressed to releasethe ambulation or mobility arm allowing it to be deployed into itsdeployed position or to be stored in its storage position

In an aspect, the handle and more specifically the mobility arm (alsoreferred herein as a “mobility handle”), comprises two sectionstelescopingly connected for adjusting the length of the mobility arm tofacilitate use of the walker by patients of different heights or by astanding patient and one confined to a wheelchair. In this aspect, themobility arm further comprises an upper arm portion and a lower armportion telescopingly connected to each other. In another embodiment,the handle has a grip joint with means for selectably positioning thegrip handle. In the embodiment where the mobility handles aredeployable, the mobility handles may connect to the base arms by anymeans known in the art such that in a stored position the mobilityhandles are not available for use. For example, the mobility handles maybe rotably connected to the base arm so that during storage the handlesare substantially parallel to the base arms. This can be on an inner,top or outer surface. Alternatively, the base arms may have a recessfeature for receiving the mobility handles, so that the handles aresubstantially within the base arm during storage. In an aspect, therecess is formed by having a portion of the base arm length be splitinto two. Another example of storability relates to the complete removalof the mobility arm, such as by threaded, magnetic, or tight-fittingconnections that are made to facilitate reversible or temporaryconnection of the mobility and base arms.

The particular point of connection of the mobility handle to any of thedevices or systems presented herein is not critical, so long as themobility, stability and maneuverability of the system remainssatisfactory. For example, in certain embodiments the point ofconnection is on a base arm that tends to be relatively far from thetrunk. In other embodiments the point of attachment may be at the trunkor at the vertex region. For example, a single connector may connect tothe trunk at one end, and at the other end a pair of mobility handlesmay connect. Alternatively, a pair of mobility handles may connect toand extend from the trunk. In an aspect, the mobility handles aregenerally located in an area that corresponds to the vertical spaceabove the base footprint area.

In an embodiment, the trunk indirectly supports medical component(s) byconnecting to holding or folding arms that support the medicalcomponents. This type of medical component support mechanism, ratherthan direct medical component attachment to the trunk, is extremelyflexible in terms of component positioning, easy-to-use, and capable ofsupporting a large number of components and provides maximum compactstorage when the IMS is not in use. In an aspect, each of the holding orfolding arms is itself deployable.

In an aspect, the IMS has a holding arm telescopingly connected to thetrunk top end for holding medical components so that the holding arm isheight-adjustable. The IMS can further comprise a holding arm lockassembly lockably engaged with the holding arm, whereby the holding armcan be locked in storage or deployed position with one hand. Inparticular, the lock assembly facilitates positioning of the holding armwith a variety of holding arm lengths. The lock assembly can furthercomprise a button that moves a member out of a recess in the holding armthereby permitting movement of the holding arm relative to the trunk topend. When the desired position is reached, the button can be released sothat the member engages another recess in the holding arm, therebysecurely positioning the holding arm. In an aspect, this lockingmechanism button is located on the trunk top surface. In another aspect,provided is a holder that is operably connected to both the trunk andone or more holding arms. The handle is movable along at least a portionof the axial length of the trunk. A latch-type mechanism is provided sothat the handle (and therefore the holding arm) is capable of lockingand unlocking the handle the handle moves as desired, thereby adjustingthe maximum height of the holding arm. This provides a means for“infinite” height adjustability of one or more medical componentssupported by the holding arm(s).

In an aspect, the holding arm further comprises one or more holders forholding one or more medical components. Alternatively, holders mayconnect directly to the trunk. The holders themselves can bepositionable, thereby providing further control of where the medicalcomponent(s) are attached relative to the IMS trunk. The holders can bedeployable, removable or both. In an embodiment, the holders arepositioned in a groove that runs at least a portion of the length of theholding arm. The groove can contain a system for one-handed holdermanipulation, wherein the holder can be connected to the groove in amanner that allows placement or positioning of the holder when theholder is manipulated, and the holder is firmly positioned when theholder is not manipulated. The groove may comprise a series of spacedreceptacles for mating with a holder, such as a ladder recess and reliefpattern and/or may employ a ratchet mechanism. The groove system isparticularly useful for receiving pump shaft mounts. In an embodiment,the groove is capable of receiving the plurality of positionableholders. To provide secure attachment of medical fluid bags to theholders, the holder can have one end shaped or contoured (e.g., hooks),such that relief and/or recess features receive the medical fluid bag.The holders are capable of holding any component that needs to be inproximity to a patient and is useful in providing medical treatment.

In an embodiment, the holding arm is three-sided with each of the threesides having a groove running in a longitudinal direction for receivingat least one holder. In this aspect, longitudinal direction refers tothe long-axis direction of the holding arm. This three-sided systemprovides additional flexibility in locating and positioning medicalcomponents attached to the IMS. In an embodiment, the IMS comprises apair of holding arms, with each holding arm independently telescopinglyconnected to the trunk top end. Alternatively, each of the two holdingarms are controlled by a single handle located in a slideable engagementwith the trunk.

In another aspect of the invention, the IMS further comprises a foldingarm or “collapsible support”, “pump mount” or, more generally, “mount”.The collapsible support provides an additional or alternative site forconnecting medical components. The collapsible support is connected tothe trunk at both collapsible support ends, in contrast to the holdingarm that has one end that is telescopingly connected to the trunk topend. The attachment sites are preferably located in a position that isopposite the trunk front and between the two trunk side surfaces. In theexemplified embodiment, the collapsible support has a bottom collapsiblesupport section capable of telescoping between a stored position and adeployed position for receiving medical components. For example, aspring button is capable of lockably engaging with a corresponding holeso that the trunk and lower collapsible support are “locked.” Thecollapsible support section has a bottom end deployably connected to thetrunk bottom end and a top collapsible support section with a top enddeployably connected to the trunk top end. The bottom and top armsections are connected by a folding joint. Similar to the holding arm,the collapsible support is capable of attaching a plurality ofdeployable holders, and specifically holders that are connected to thetop collapsible support section for attaching a medical component. Thecollapsible support also has a means for deploying and storing thecollapsible support, wherein in a stored position the collapsiblesupport is parallel to the trunk, including contained within acollapsible support groove in the trunk that separates two side trunksurfaces. The means for deploying the collapsible support facilitatesrapid and easy positioning of the collapsible support away from thetrunk for receiving one or more medical components. Means for deployingthe collapsible support includes, but is not limited to, a small ringlocated at the elbow for transmitting a force. When a deploying force isapplied to the ring (e.g., ring is pulled), the lower telescopingcollapsible support section extends and a button mates with a hole inthe shaft, thereby locking the system into a deployed configuration.Alternatively, a pair of springs or other tension providing means isprovided, such that the collapsible support is under tension whenstored, and when a force is applied to the joint in a direction awayfrom the trunk, the arm unfolds and deploys. Alternatively, thecollapsible support ends can have a positionable connection with thetrunk (e.g., slide and lock mechanism). In another aspect, this pumpmount or collapsible support is automatically deployed when the basearms are deployed. This is achieved by operably connecting the pumpmount to the base arms such that pivotal motion of the base armsrelative to the trunk causes a corresponding pump mount or collapsiblesupport motion.

The trunk of any of the systems claimed has a trunk optionally shaped tohave three major surfaces, a front face and two side faces to which thebase arms are substantially parallel when the base arms are positionedin a storage configuration. In an embodiment, the front face has anaxial trunk groove in which a cord or tubing of a medical component maybe disposed. One or more clips can be operationally connected to thetrunk groove, including rotably connected, for organizing or holdingcords or tubing associated with the components attached to the IMS. Inan embodiment, the collapsible support is positioned within acollapsible support groove located between the two trunk side faces. Foran automatically deployable pump mount (collapsible support), theoperable connection between the mount/support and the base arm(s) can bealong a trunk surface or contained within the interior volume defined bythe trunk surfaces.

In an aspect, the IMS further comprises an electrical system forproviding power to electrical components that are attached to the IMS.The electrical system comprises at least one electrical outlet capableof supplying electrical power to a medical component attached to thesystem. The electrical outlet can be located anywhere on the system thatis convenient for supplying electrical power to an electrical component,for example on a base arm top surface or trunk surface. In anembodiment, one or more electrical outlets are located on the trunk sidesurface(s) or the trunk front surface. The electrical system connects toa power source, wherein the electrical power is AC, DC, or both. ACpower can be supplied by a conventional wall outlet connected to theelectrical system (e.g, a power strip) by a conventional AC power cordand plug. In addition, DC power can be supplied by a battery, such as aprimary or secondary battery. The ability to power the system with a DCportable power source is particularly important for the embodiment wherethe system is ambulating, so that a continuous source of electricalpower is available even when the system is not connected to a walloutlet. The DC power source can be a battery that is attached to thesystem. In an aspect, the electrical system includes a rechargeablebattery and means for charging the rechargeable battery from an externalpower source. The means for charging includes a cord connected to an acplug for connecting to an ac outlet, a cord connected to a dc plug forconnecting to a dc outlet, and the various associated circuitry known inthe art for ensuring efficient and safe battery charging from thesesources. The rechargeable battery can be an integral component of theIMS, such as positioned within the trunk or a trunk recess.Alternatively, the battery can be attached to one of the holders of theIMS.

The trunk of the present invention can have any of a variety of shapes,so long as the trunk and base arms are capable of relatively compactstorage when the base arms are positioned substantially parallel to thetrunk. Accordingly, the trunk has an axial or longitudinal directionselected from the group consisting of angled, curved and linear. In anaspect the trunk is angled or curved. An angled or curved trunk isuseful for positioning the IMS near objects such as a bed, gurney,tables and dressers, for example. In an aspect the trunk is linear. Alinear trunk is the simplest geometry and can yield the most compactconfiguration suitable for wall-hanging storage or placement within acart capable of holding a plurality of IMS of the present invention. Inan aspect, a plurality of systems may nestle within each other forcompact storage without a need for rotating the base relative to thetrunk.

In an embodiment, the IMS is also a mobility assistance device capableof being maneuvered by a walking patient who is connected to, or musthave readily available, one or more medical components. In this aspect,the IMS device comprises a trunk having one or more holders for holdingone or more medical components, wherein the trunk has a bottom end and atop end. Axially spaced holders can be connected directly to the trunkor indirectly to the trunk by a holding arm and/or collapsible supportor pump mount (“mount”) described herein. A base, having a first basearm and a second base arm wherein one end of each of the base arms isconnected to the trunk bottom end, is connected to the trunk. To provideIMS mobility, a first wheel is connected at the vertex region or nearthe trunk bottom end, a second wheel is connected to the first base armend, and a third wheel is connected to the second base arm end, whereineach of the wheels are capable of stably contacting a supporting surfaceon which the system rests. The points of contact between the wheels andsupporting surface provides a stable triangular base footprint overwhich the trunk extends. Additional wheels may be employed as necessary.Mobility arms for supporting a walking patient, and in a specificembodiment receiving a patient's hand, are connected to each of the basearms for supporting a patient's hand. The patient is able to move thesystem in a direction by applying appropriate force to each of thehandles or mobility arms. The system is able to provide stable supportto the walking or moving patient and is also tip-resistant, even withone or more heavy components attached to the system.

In an embodiment, each handle (or mobility arm) of the IMS walker isrotably connected to the base arms to allow the handles to be rotatedinto storage or deployed position. In another aspect providing furtherdeployability capability, each of the base arms are pivotally connectedto the trunk for pivoting each of the base arms into base-storage orbase-deployed configuration. Alternatively, the mobility arms arereversibly connected to the base arms. Optionally, additionalattachments can be provided so that a caregiver may also apply anambulating force to the walker. Examples include strategically placedhandles and/or handle attachments for connecting tethers or cords.

Any of the systems described herein can be of any appropriate dimensionor shape, so long as the system is stable and resistant to tipping evenwhen relatively heavy components are attached to the system and is sizedso that the system can be used in hallways, through doors, etc., asdesired. For example, the trunk can have at least a portion that islinear, with the linear portion having an angle relative to vertical.The angle relative to vertical is any suitable angle, including an angleselected from a range of between about 5° and about 25°, 10° and 15°, orabout 12°, thereby ensuring the trunk, and more particularly componentssupported by the trunk, is positioned over a central portion of the basefootprint. The vertical distance between the top and bottom ends of thetrunk can have a range selected to match the height of a user (e.g.,child versus adult). For example, the vertical height (e.g., distance oftop end from the floor) is selected from a range of between about 3′ and6′, 4′ and 5′, or about 4.5′. The telescoping support providesadditional vertical height, such as a height selected from a range ofbetween about 1′ and 2′, or about 18″. Accordingly, the total verticalheight of the trunk plus telescoping support in an exemplifiedembodiment is about 6′.

The base footprint of the IMS and IMS walker systems of the presentinvention with wheels deployed is triangular, with each vertexcorresponding to the contact point between the wheel and supportingsurface. The particular trunk and base arm geometry are dependent oneach other so that the deployed system is extremely stable. In anembodiment, the base arms have a length selected from a range of betweenabout 2′ to 3.5′, 30″ to 36″, or about 3′. The base footprintcorresponds to about the area between the base arms and for base arms of36″ length and vertex angle of 70° is about 610 in².

In another aspect, any of the systems described and claimed have a basevertex angle selected from the range of 40° to 100°, 50° to 90°, orabout 70°, where the base vertex angle is defined by the angle formed bythe directions of the first and second base arms, and particularly thedirections of the base arm ends adjacent to the trunk bottom. Animportant aspect of the invention is that even for an IMS having a largebase footprint and capable of holding a significant number ofcomponents, when not in use the IMS is capable of folding into a compactconfiguration having dimensions that are only slightly greater than thedimensions of the trunk. For example, when folded for storage, thefootprint of the device can be as small as the horizontal cross-sectionof the trunk, or about the cross-section of the trunk plus thecross-sections of each of the base arms in their stored position. Incontrast, the footprint of the deployed IMS corresponds to the areadefined by the deployed base arms. Accordingly, in an aspect the storedfootprint is less than 20%, less than 10%, or less than 5% the deployedfootprint.

The invention further provides methods related to the IMS and IMSwalkers disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the invention is a method ofsimultaneously providing medical treatment and supporting a patientwhile walking by providing an infusion management walker system of thepresent invention. The medical components that provide medical treatmentare attached to the holders of the walker system and each of themobility arms are rotated to a position suitable for receiving forcefrom a walking patient. A patient who wishes to walk while connected tothe medical component(s) is positioned behind the system (e.g., in thebase area region generally defined as between the second and thirdwheels attached to the base arms) and each of the patient hands arepositioned on the handle grip. The patient can walk with the IMS walkerand ambulate the IMS walker by applying a force to the handle grip andthereby simultaneously receive medical treatment and receive walkingsupport from the IMS walker. This method provides a stable IMS that ismuch more resistant to tipping or uncontrolled movement then traditionalIV poles and is capable of preserving the patient's line of sight duringambulation. In an aspect, the medical component that is attached to theIMS is selected from the group consisting of an intravenous fluidcontainer (e.g., IV bags), catheter and drainage bags, testingequipment, infusion pumps, a power supply, an optical source, oxygencanisters, monitoring equipment or any medical item whose use may befacilitated by proximity to a patient.

Also provided are methods for compactly storing an infusion managementsystem, such as by providing an IMS having a trunk connected to a base,wherein the base comprises a pair of base arms that pivotally connect tothe trunk. Pivoting the base to a position that is substantiallyparallel to the trunk provides compact storage of the infusionmanagement system. The system is then available to be stored whereconvenient, such as by mounting to a wall or ceiling mount.Alternatively, any of the systems provided herein are stored by nestingadjacent devices in a manner similar to how conventional carts arenested (e.g., close proximity and stacking of the devices).

The invention is also a specialized, wheeled-system to ensure a safe andeasy-to-use walker IMS. The wheel system of the present invention isoptionally hubless and/or deployable. The wheel system comprises abearing that facilitates rotation of an outer wheel portion thatcontacts the surface over which the wheel rolls, and an inner wheelportion that does not itself rotate when the outer wheel is rolling. Thebearing can be any bearing known in the art such as ball bearings androller bearings, so long as the outer wheel portion is capable ofrotating without any inner wheel rotation. Alternatively, the wheel isof an open-hub design.

In an embodiment, the invention is a deployable wheel system having aring mount with an inner facing surface that defines a central orifice.A wheel holder is rotably connected at one end to the inner-facingsurface of said ring mount and connected to a wheel at the wheel holderother end. The wheel itself is a “hubless wheel” having an outer portionand an inner portion, wherein the outer portion is rotably connected tothe inner portion, and the wheel holder is rigidly connected to thewheel inner portion. This configuration allows the wheel outer portionto roll over a surface, and the wheel holder is capable of deploying thewheel in a deployed position or a stored position. In the wheel storedposition, the wheel is said to be aligned with the ring mount, whereinthe wheel is generally concentric to the ring mount and the wheel outerportion is covered by the ring mount. In the wheel deployed position,the wheel is not aligned with the ring mount, and a significant portionof the wheel outer surface is not covered by the ring mount and isavailable for contacting and rolling over a supporting surface.

In an aspect, the ring mount has an outer facing surface that isattached to a wheel cover. The wheel cover has an end that is availablefor connecting to a device, including a medical device, a table orstand, or a generic holder such as a bicycle holder, for example. Theother end of the cover can be curved and shaped as desired, includingcurved and shaped to cover the wheel, thereby minimizing injury arisingfrom incidental contact with the wheel. The ring mount connectionbetween the ring mount and wheel cover is optionally rotably connected,thereby providing swivel capability to the wheel (e.g., a wheel casterthat aligns with the direction of applied force).

The wheel systems of the present invention are particularly useful whenconnected to a piece of medical equipment. The wheel systems of thepresent invention can be connected to a device arm by any means known inthe art, including by slidably engaging the device arm into a hollowopening at the wheel cover connecting end. Alternatively, the wheelcover can be an integral part of the device arm (e.g., by injectionmolding, casting, etc), or permanently affixed to the device byfasteners, adhesives and/or welds. In the exemplified embodiment, thewheel cover receives a base arm of an intravenous pole (including theIMS of the present invention) and fasteners securely connect the basearm and wheel cover.

In an embodiment, the wheel system further comprises a wheel swivel lockassembly lockably engaged with said ring mount outer surface, wherebysaid ring mount can be locked in a direction thereby preventing wheelswivel. This embodiment is useful for providing straight-line walkerswhile retaining the ability to deploy a more maneuverable walker asneeded.

In another aspect, the wheel system comprises a wheel lock assemblylockably engaged with the wheel outer portion, whereby the wheel iscapable of locking in stationary position, thereby preventing wheelrotation over a supporting surface. In an embodiment, the IMS comprisesa wheel system having a controlled braking system to provide a range offriction a user must overcome in order to move the IMS. In an embodimentthe braking system comprises a hand-brake similar to a hand brakecommonly used on bicycles. The hand-brake comprises a rubber pad thatbrakingly engages a wheel, a lever attached to the handle grip of themobility arm and a cable running between pad and lever for transmittinglever depression by the user to rubber pad motion to brakingly engagethe wheel. Alternatively, for IMS users who may have difficultygenerating sufficient force to engage a hand-brake, a throttle grip isused, wherein rotational displacement of the grip provides wheelfriction adjustment. In an embodiment, the IMS comprises a means forbraking the wheels, such as by the controlled braking lever andthrottles discussed herein, operator-assisted brakes such as a footclip, lever, dial and other mechanisms providing controllable brakingfriction. The braking system provides the ability to vary IMS movementfrom free rotating to locked in position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1: Perspective view of the infusion management system (IMS) withbase deployed. The handles for receiving a force from a patient are in astored position. The lines on the base arm surface indicate surfacecontour.

FIG. 2: A is a side view of the IMS of FIG. 1. B is a schematic diagramillustrating the trunk angle, θ, formed by the angle between the trunkand base arms and φ, trunk angle with respect to vertical. C. shows anembodiment where the axial trunk line is angled, with one trunk portionbeing vertical and another portion being tilted with respect tovertical.

FIG. 3: Top view of the IMS of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4: A Bottom view of the IMS of FIG. 1. B Schematic illustration ofthe base footprint defined by the triangle having each apexcorresponding to the contact point between the wheel and surface onwhich the IMS is resting. C shows a base footprint for when the wheelsare stored and not contacting the surface and for base arms that areangled.

FIG. 5: Rear view of the IMS of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6: Front view of the IMS of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7: Perspective view of the IMS of FIG. 1 with the handles deployed.

FIG. 8: Rear view of the IMS of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9: Front view of the IMS of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10: Side view of the IMS of FIG. 7.

FIG. 11: Top view of the IMS of FIG. 7.

FIG. 12: Bottom view of the IMS of FIG. 7.

FIG. 13: Perspective view of the IMS in its storage configuration withbase arms axially contacting the trunk.

FIG. 14: Rear view of the IMS of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15: Side view of the IMS of FIG. 13.

FIG. 16: Front view of the IMS of FIG. 13.

FIG. 17: Top view of the IMS of FIG. 13.

FIG. 18: Bottom view of the IMS of FIG. 13.

FIG. 19: Perspective close-up view of a wheel system useful in the IMSof the present invention. This wheel corresponds to a wheel connected toone of the base arms and shows the wheel deployed to facilitate IMSambulation.

FIG. 20: Side view of the deployed wheel system of FIG. 19 useful in theIMS of the present invention.

FIG. 21: Top view of the deployed wheel system of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22: Perspective view of the wheel system illustrated in FIG. 19with the wheel in its stored position. This configuration is useful forwhen the IMS is to be folded into its stored configuration and also forwhen the IMS is to be deployed but not ambulated.

FIG. 23: Side view of a wheel system of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24: End view of a wheel system of FIG. 22.

FIG. 25: Illustration of an IMS of the present invention having anintegrated electrical system for powering one or more electricaldevices.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a mobility assist IMS with the mobilityassist arms in a stored configuration.

FIG. 27 Front view of the system of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 Side view of the system of FIG. 26.

FIG. 29 Top view of the system of FIG. 26.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a mobility assist IMS with the mobilityassist arms in a deployed configuration.

FIG. 31 Side view of the system of FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a close up view of the trunk top end with the holding arms ina stored position substantially flush with the trunk top end.

FIG. 33 is a close up view of the trunk top end with the holding arms ina deployed position extending from the trunk top end. Holding arms canbe deployed by movement of the holder along the axial length of thetrunk.

FIG. 34 is a close up view of the various wheel portions of the systemillustrated in FIG. 26. A shows the end-portion of the base arms. Bshows the trunk bottom portion, vertex region, and other end-portion ofthe base arms.

FIG. 35 Various views of the system of FIG. 26 in a stored position. Ais a front view; B is a side view; C is a rear view.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 26 in a storedposition.

FIG. 37 is a top view of the system of FIG. 26 in a stored position.

FIG. 38 is a close up view of the various wheel portions of the systemin a stored position illustrated in FIGS. 35-36. A shows the end-portionof the base arms. B shows the trunk bottom portion, vertex region, andother end-portion of the base arms.

FIGS. 39-40 provide a close-up view of a wheel system connected to abase arm by a conventional caster.

FIG. 41 is a view of a mobility-assist IMS with an offset verticaltrunk.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings, like numerals indicate like elements and thesame number appearing in more than one drawing refers to the sameelement. In addition, hereinafter, the following definitions apply:

The invention has a number of innovative features related to one or moreof stability, foldability, and maneuverability. For example, the systemsprovided herein can replace conventional intravenous (IV) pole byproviding improved stability and maneuverability during ambulation,compact storage when not in use. The base footprint combined with thelocation of the trunk allows for a patient to ambulate withoutinterference from any of the base arms, trunk, or components connectedto the system. A v-base and angled trunk embodiment create a stableplatform for hanging a large number of heavy devices and/or materials tothe system while maintaining their ability to connect or interface withthe patient. In an embodiment where the system is mobile, the systemfacilitates connection of a large number of medical accessories to apatient without sacrificing stability or control when the patient iswalking.

“Trunk” refers to the central shaft or pole to which any number ofcomponents (e.g., medical components) can be held or attached. The trunkmay be vertical, substantially vertical, or angled with respect tovertical. “Substantially vertical” refers to plus or minus 5° fromvertical (e.g., 90° relative to the base). A trunk having at least aportion that is angled with respect to vertical to provides furtherstability to the system, even when multiple relatively heavy componentsare attached to the system. If an angle formed by the trunk and base isless than 90°, that angle is said to be “acute”. In an aspect, the trunkis linear (e.g., not bent or curved). In an aspect the trunk is bent orcurved.

“Base” refers to the portion of the system that rests on a supportingsurface (e.g., a floor). In the exemplified embodiment, the basecomprises a pair of base arms with each base arm pivotally connected tothe trunk bottom end. “Pivotally connected” refers to a base that isdeployable with respect to the trunk. Accordingly, when the base armsare folded-out the arms are positioned at an angle relative to the trunkand the system is ready for supporting one or more medical components.When the base arms are folded-in they are positioned substantiallyparallel to the trunk and the system is relatively compact and ready forstorage. As used herein, “parallel” refers to a longitudinal directionof the base arm being within at least 5° of true parallel with respectto the longitudinal direction of the trunk. “Substantially parallel”refers to the longitudinal directions of the axis or the surfaces beingwithin at least 30°, at least 15°, or at least 5° of parallel.

Many features of an IMS are said to be deployable. “Deployable” refersto the component being “folded-in” (positioned) to make the component orsystem more compact for storage, or “folded-out” (positioned) to makethe component or system ready for use. Alternatively, deployable refersto a portion of the system that can be removed or connected to thedevice as needed.

In the embodiment where the trunk is a straight shaft, the base arms canhave correspondingly straight geometry, with the base arms forming abase arm apex angle corresponding to the vertex located at the trunkwhere each of the arms are pivotally connected. In the embodiment wherethe trunk is angled or curved, each of the base arms are preferablycorrespondingly angled or curved to ensure maximum compact storage ofthe system when the base arms are pivoted to a position parallel to thetrunk. Although it is preferred, for maximum compactness, the base armsand trunk have similar longitudinal geometry, the invention toleratesmismatch in geometry without undue loss in the ability to compact thesystem when not in use.

The contact points between the base and the surface on which the baserests define the edges of a base footprint. “Base footprint” refers tothe area defined by the contact points between the base and thesupporting surface and a notional line running from the base arm endsthat are not attached to the trunk (e.g., the open-ended portion of thebase footprint). A “two-sided” footprint refers to a configuration wherethere is an open-ended side opposite the vertex region from which eachof the base arms extend. When three wheels are deployed, this area istriangular. When the base arms contact the surface, the area may betriangular (e.g., each of the base arms are linear), or can have a morecomplex shape (e.g., U-shaped, v-shaped or multi-angled shaped), witheach side having a shape corresponding to a non-linear base arm, and athird notional straight-line that joins the base arm ends that are notattached to the trunk.

An aspect of the present invention is an infusion management systemcapable of ambulating over a supporting surface. “Ambulating” refers toa system that can move over a surface, and particularly a system capableof functioning as a mobility assist or walker for a patient that isconnected to one or more medical components. In addition to the systemfunctioning as a walker, the system is also constructed to ensuremedical support personal can readily maneuver the system that isdeployed or stored and optionally connected to one or more medicalcomponents. “Medical component” refers to a material, device, orstructure useful in providing medical treatment to a patient including,but not limited, bags of fluid such as intravenous (IV) fluid, infusionpump, optical sources, power supplies, platforms for holding medicalcomponents, oxygen monitor, oxygen canisters, etc.

“Holding” or “attaching” a medical component to the IMS encompassespassive hanging (e.g., a bag suspended by a holder), orienting theholders to more securely receive the component, shaping the hanger toprovide relief and recess features to facilitate secure holding as wellas more complex connections such as a male-female connection with anadaptor connected to the devices (e.g., threaded screws, one-handedquick connects, snap-beads, etc.). Optional accessories such as lightsources, calculator, computer, video screens, power supplies can be morepermanently attached to and/or in the trunk surface.

The core system (e.g., trunk and base arms) itself can be made from anyof a number of materials including, but not limited to, traditionalchrome, any metal or metal composites, fiberglass, plastics, carbonfiber, and/or composite material.

The system preferably has rounded edges and corners to minimize thechance of injury arising from inadvertent contact with the system andmay have rubber-like bumpers or protecting strip to minimize unwantedimpact arising from accidental contacts. In addition, the system can bedesigned to be aesthetically pleasing, having dramatic sweeping armswith striking color, sharp and clean lines to reassure patients who areuncertain about ambulating.

“Caster” is used to refer to a wheel mounted with an offset steeringpivot such that the wheel will automatically swivel to align itself tothe direction from which it is pushed or pulled. Typical caster systemsknown in the art are commonly found on shopping carts, rolling chairsand other movable objects (see, e.g., Hamilton Caster & Mfg. Co.,Hamilton, Ohio). The wheel system of the present invention is optionallya hubless caster (see U.S. Pat. No. 6,839,939 for a hubless casterassembly) and deployable.

Unless explicitly otherwise defined herein, “substantially” refers to avalue that deviates less than about 10% from the true value.

All references cited throughout this application, for example patentdocuments including issued or granted patents or equivalents; patentapplication publications; and non-patent literature documents or othersource material are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentireties, as though individually incorporated by reference, to theextent each reference is not inconsistent with the disclosure in thisapplication (for example, a reference that is partially inconsistent isincorporated by reference except for the partially inconsistent portionof the reference).

Every formulation or combination of components described or exemplifiedherein can be used to practice the invention, unless otherwise stated.

Whenever a range is given in the specification, for example, a sizerange or an angle range, all intermediate ranges and subranges, as wellas all individual values included in the ranges given are intended to beincluded in the disclosure. It will be understood that any subranges orindividual values in a range or subrange that are included in thedescription herein can be excluded from the claims herein.

All patents and publications mentioned in the specification areindicative of the levels of skill of those skilled in the art to whichthe invention pertains. References cited herein are incorporated byreference in their entirety to indicate the state of the art as of theirpublication or filing date and it is intended that this information canbe employed herein, if needed, to exclude specific embodiments that arein the prior art.

As used herein, “comprising” is synonymous with “including,”“containing,” or “characterized by,” and is inclusive or open-ended anddoes not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. As usedherein, “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient notspecified in the claim element. As used herein, “consisting essentiallyof” does not exclude materials or steps that do not materially affectthe basic and novel characteristics of the claim. In each instanceherein any of the terms “comprising”, “consisting essentially of” and“consisting of” may be replaced with either of the other two terms. Theinvention illustratively described herein may be practiced in theabsence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations which isnot specifically disclosed herein.

One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that materials andmethods other than those specifically exemplified can be employed in thepractice of the invention without resort to undue experimentation. Allart-known functional equivalents, of any such materials and methods areintended to be included in this invention. The terms and expressionswhich have been employed are used as terms of description and not oflimitation, and there is no intention that in the use of such terms andexpressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown anddescribed or portions thereof, but it is recognized that variousmodifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed.Thus, it should be understood that although the present invention hasbeen specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments and optionalfeatures, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosedmay be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that suchmodifications and variations are considered to be within the scope ofthis invention as defined by the appended claims.

EXAMPLE 1 IMS Geometry

The infusion management system (IMS) in its most basic configurationcomprises a base 30 having a first 40 and second 50 base arm connectedto a trunk 20 (FIG. 1). FIGS. 1-6 show an IMS in the base deployedconfiguration 10. Base arms 40 and 50 are connected to trunk 20 bottomend 22. The trunk 20 has at least an axial portion corresponding to anon-zero angle relative to vertical and an acute angle relative to basearms 40 and 50. This geometry is summarized in FIG. 2B, with the acuteangle formed between trunk 20 and base arm 40 (or 50) labeled as θ andthe non-zero angle relative to vertical labeled as cp. In theexemplified embodiment of FIGS. 1-6 (e.g., three wheels deployed), thewheels 81 and 82 attached to base arms 40 and 50, and wheel 80 attachedto trunk bottom 22 form a base footprint 32 that is triangular (e.g.,see top and bottom views in FIGS. 3 and 4B). Base footprint 32 refers tothe triangle defined by the contact point between each of the threewheels and surface on which the wheels rest, for the embodiment when thewheels are deployed (FIG. 4B). The sides 34 and 35 of base footprinttriangle corresponds to base arms 40 and 50 for the straight base armembodiment depicted in FIG. 4A. The exemplified embodiment shows a base30 having a “v-shaped configuration.” The base apex angle, α, is definedas the angle formed by the base arms 40 and 50 at the trunk bottom, 22(see FIG. 4B).

When the wheels are in a stored position (e.g, see FIG. 22), the basefootprint corresponds to the contact points between the base arms 40 and50 and trunk bottom 22 with the surface on which the base arms and trunkbottom rest (FIG. 4C). The invention encompasses non-linear base armshapes including, but not limited to, curved, U-shaped, multiply-edged.FIG. 4C illustrates base arms that are angled (e.g., two-edged).Accordingly, in the wheels stored position, the base footprint can havemore complicated non-triangular shapes whose edges correspond to theaxial shape of the base arms 40 and 50. To ensure maximum compactstorage, the shape of the trunk arm is preferably matched to the shapeof the base arms, thereby ensuring parallel positioning of the base arms30 and 40 to trunk 20 when the base arms are pivoted closed (compareFIGS. 2C and 4C). Accordingly, base footprint area can change dependingon whether wheels are deployed (so that base arms do not contact thesupporting surface (see FIG. 4B)) or stored (so that base arms docontact the supporting surface (see FIG. 4C)). FIG. 4C is an example ofa multi-angled configuration base footprint, wherein a base arm can bemade of individual segments having different axial orientation.

The base footprint 32 (for both wheels deployed and wheels stored) andangled relative-to-vertical (φ) trunk 20 are important features of thepresent invention and ensures the center of gravity, even with one ormore relatively heavy components attached to the system, is confined toa region within base footprint 32. Such a configuration ensures system10 remains stable and tip-resistant even when it is ambulating and/orsupporting a heavy load. Greater stability is provided by positioningholders 70 and/or 72 such that components are preferably located over acentral region of base footprint 32, such as an area extending back fromwheel 80 or trunk bottom 22 out to the notional line running between theends of base arm 40 and 50 or wheels 81 and 82. In an aspect, a holder70 may be connected directly to trunk 20.

The trunk 20, similar to the base arms 30 and 40, can also benon-linear. The exemplified embodiment illustrates a trunk that islinear, having an angle with respect to vertical (φ) and horizontal (θ)when base arms 40 and 50 are deployed to form base 30. The inventionencompasses a trunk 20 that is curved or comprises more than one trunksection with each section having a unique angle with respect tohorizontal. For example, the trunk can have a bottom section that isvertical (e.g., 90° angle with respect to horizontal) and an uppersection that is angled with respect to horizontal, as illustrated inFIG. 2C. The trunk can have any axial shape/direction, so long as asignificant portion of any suspended component is over the basefootprint, thereby ensuring maximum stability and resistance to tipping.In an embodiment, the trunk 20 comprises three major surfaces, a trunkfront surface 27, a first side surface 28 and a second side surface 29(see FIGS. 3 and 4A).

FIG. 3 illustrates that the front surface 27 of trunk 20 can furthercomprise a cord management system 140 for storing and organizing cords,including electric cords, component communication wires, and plastic IVtube lines. Cord management system 140 can comprise an opening 142allowing cord placement within the trunk 20 body and optionally cordclips or organizers 144 for securably positioning cords or tubes. Thecord management system can run substantially the entire length of trunk20 or a portion thereof.

In the embodiment where the IMS facilitates patient ambulation, aplurality of wheels 79 are connected to the system 10. As shown in FIG.4, a first wheel 80 is connected to trunk bottom end 22, and second andthird wheels 81 and 82 and are connected to the end 42 or 52 of the basearm 40 or 50 by any means known in the art, such as by fasteners 87(FIG. 19), adhesives, welds, etc. As discussed in the wheel example, inan aspect, each of the wheels is capable of orienting (e.g., swiveling)in any direction. This aspect is useful for patients who need not relyto a great extent on the system for support and also for situationswhere ease of maneuvering is required. In an alternative embodiment,wheels 81 and 82 deploy in a single fixed in a direction and wheel 80 iscapable of swiveling. Optionally, each of wheels 81 and 82 are capableof swiveling, but upon activation of a wheel swivel locking mechanismeach of wheels 81 and 82 are locked and unable to swivel. To ensuremaximum patient safety, wheels 81 and 82 that can freely rotate in anydirection (in response to a user changing direction), can optionally belocked in a user-specified direction, such as for example asubstantially forward direction to facilitate straight-line walking upondeployment of mobility arms 100 and/or 120. Optionally, each of the oneor more wheel systems has a braking mechanism brakingly engaged with thewheel for increasing the force required to roll or swivel the wheels, sothat a patient must use a correspondingly greater pushing force toambulate the system. Any such adjustable wheel-tensioning system thatfacilitates different amounts of friction encompassing complete brakingto light brake application is particularly useful for patients firstwalking with the IMS.

The IMS is particularly versatile in its modular system for supportingcomponents. For example, one or more holding arms 60 are telescopinglyconnected to the trunk top end 24 (FIGS. 1-6). “Telescopingly connected”as known in the art (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,458,305; 4,905,944)refers to the height of an object being adjustable by entering anotherobject, thereby adjusting the height. The height of the holding arm isadjusted by engaging a holding arm locking mechanism, such as a holdingarm lock button 61 (FIG. 1). In a stored position, holding arm 60 issubstantially entirely contained within trunk 20 (FIG. 13). Holding arm60 is particularly useful for supporting medical fluid bags such as IVfluid bags. In an embodiment, holding arm 60 is three-sided to providemultiple vertical and radial hook locations for each holding arm. Theholding arm can further comprise means for selectably adjusting thelocation of holder 72. Means for selectably adjusting encompassesrelatively simple configurations such as female receptacles axiallyspaced along each face of the holder arm 60 for receiving a holder orhook having a complementary male configuration. The receiving means canbe by a threaded screw, snap bead or other system known in the art. Inthe exemplified embodiment, the means for selectably adjusting thelocation of a holder 72 is by interaction of holder 72 with a groove 62that runs in each face along at least a portion of the longitudinaldistance of arm 60. The groove can have a ladder to relief/recessfeatures for receiving holder 72. In an aspect, each of the holders 72is deployable, wherein in a stored position the holder 72 is folded intogroove 62, to provide greater flexibility and options when hangingcomponents and ease of storage when arm 60 is stored within trunk 20(see FIG. 13). Any system that facilitates one hand hook deployment ispreferable as such systems ease deployment/storage time and componenthookup to the system.

The exemplified embodiment illustrates an additional collapsible supportor “foldable arm” 65 connected to the trunk 20 for holding medicaldevices and other relatively heavy objects (e.g., small platforms, powersupplies, etc.). FIGS. 1 and 2 show collapsible support 65 connected totrunk top 24 and bottom 22. The collapsible support 65 comprises abottom collapsible support section 66 having a telescoping connectionthat is lockingly positioned by pin 67 and a top collapsible supportsection 68. One end of sections 66 and 68 are deployably connected totrunk bottom 22 and top 24, respectively. The other end of sections 66and 68 are connected to each other via folding joint 69. The foldingjoint 69 can further comprise means for deploying and storing thecollapsible support, such as a handle, grip for one-hand deployment andstorage of collapsible support 65. The deployable connection of ends ofcollapsible support 65 can comprise tension means such as a spring orhydraulics for facilitating stored configuration parallel to the trunk20 and within trunk groove or recess 64 (when the collapsible support isnot needed) and deployed configuration (when an attachment is to bemounted to a holder 70) where collapsible support 65 is pulled away fromthe trunk to ensure components connected to holder 70 are centrallylocated relative to base footprint 32. The holders 70 of collapsiblesupport 65 can be selectably adjusted, positioned, deployed and removed,similar to the means described for holding arm 60. FIGS. 1 and 5 showholders 70 within collapsible support groove 62, wherein holders 72 maybe deployed, folded within groove 62, mounted or removed, in a mannersimilar to the holding arm 60. In an embodiment, any of holders 70 or 72can be specially shaped to have recess and relief features for receivingspecific attachments having corresponding relief and recess features,where the attachment is in turn connected to a component.

The system 10 shown in FIGS. 1-6 is in the base-deployed configuration,with handles 100 and 120 that can be used in a walker-mode in theirstored position, adjacent to base arms 40 and 50, respectively

EXAMPLE 2 IMS Walker/Mobility Assistance

A useful embodiment of the invention is a system that has mobility arms100 and 120 deployed such that the system is in a base and walkerdeployed configuration 12 (FIGS. 7-12). FIGS. 1-6 illustrate base-onlydeployed configuration 10, and FIGS. 7-12 illustrate a system in a baseand walker deployed configuration 12. Mobility arms 100 and 120 areconnected to base arm 40 and 50, respectively (FIG. 7). The mobility arm100 and 120 are each pivotally connected to base arm 40 and 50,respectively, so that the mobility arms are deployable. In theexemplified embodiment this pivot connection 102 is located at the innersurface of each base arm (FIG. 8). The connection can also be at otherpositions, such as the top surfaces 44 and 54 of the base arms 40 and 50or outer facing surfaces of base arms. Mobility arms 100 and 120 arecapable of locking into a deployed position (FIGS. 7-12) or a storedconfiguration (FIGS. 1-6) by a handle lock assembly 101 that lockablyengages with the mobility arm. For example, depressing handle lockbutton 101 can disengage the lock that prevents rotation of mobility arm100 or 120 with respect to base arm 40 or 50, thereby allowing mobilityarm rotation. The lock can be under tension, so that when the mobilityarm is in an appropriate position (e.g., vertical), the lockautomatically engages thereby locking the mobility arm in its deployedposition. Another locking mechanism is provided by lock assembly 101 andpivot connection 102, wherein when each of handles 100 and 120 deploy,each of caster wheels 81 and 82 lock in a fixed direction and cannotswivel, thereby improving the safety and stability of system 12 whenambulating by a patient.

Each handle optionally comprises a lower mobility arm section 104 and anupper mobility arm section 105. The arm sections 104 and 105 areoptionally telescopingly connected to each other, thereby providinghandles 100 and 120 that are length-adjustable and capable matching auser's height and hand position. For example, a single system can beused for a person walking or in a wheelchair (or by patients havingdifferent heights such as a child and an adult), by appropriatelytelescoping section 105 into section 104. A relatively simpletelescopingly connection is illustrated in FIGS. 7-12, where a series ofaxially-positioned adjustment holes 112 on arm section 104 are capableof engaging a protuberance (such as a spring-loaded button) 114 locatedon upper arm section 105. Other telescopingly arm connections are knownin the art, such as for walking poles and other stands withheight-adjustable stands (e.g, 6,983,915; 5,458,305).

To facilitate compact storage and comfort for the user, each handle 100and 120 can further comprise a handle grip 106 that is pivotallyconnected to the mobility arm 100 or 120, and more specifically to theupper mobility arm section 105. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, handle gripjoint 108 connects handle grip 106 and upper section 105. The grip jointfacilitates deployment of grip 106 from its stored position (e.g.,parallel to mobility arm sections 104 and 105, see FIG. 4) to itsdeployed position (e.g., perpendicular to mobility arm sections 104 and105, see FIG. 8B). The grip joint 108 can further comprise means forselectably positioning the amount of rotation of grip 106 relative toarm section 105, such as a male-female locking mechanism, tension screw,etc. The ability to selectably rotate grip 106 provides the ability toposition grip 106 to ensure maximum comfort to a user who is using thesystem 12 in its walker configuration. In an embodiment, grip 106 isconnected to a means for braking wheel 81 or 82. Means for brakingincludes a grip 106 that further comprises a throttle assembly forcontrolling or braking wheel rotation on the corresponding wheel (e.g.,81 or 82), or a braking lever connected to grip 106.

As shown in FIGS. 7, 10 and 11, the handle (and specifically the handlegrip 106) is positioned such that none of the handles, wheels, IMS orcomponents attached to the IMS interferes with the ability of thepatient to walk and maneuver the system. The system 10 and 12 providesgreat flexibility in positioning components in a wide variety oflocations so as to provide maximum stability during system movement,patient support to ensure safety during movement, as well as ensuringthat the attached components do not interfere with patient movement orobstruct the patient's line of site. The system is also capable ofreceiving an ambulating force from a person besides the ambulatingpatient (e.g., a caregiver). The means can be a handle on trunk 20, aswell as a tether or rope system.

EXAMPLE 3 IMS Storage

FIGS. 13-18 illustrate the system in its stored configuration 14. Inparticular, each of the individually deployable components (wheels 81and 82, base arms 40 and 50, handle grip 106, handle (100, 120, 104,105), holding arm 60, collapsible support 65, holders 70 and 72) arestored to provide maximum compactness. Wheel 80, is shown deployed andcan be used to assist in moving system 14 by rolling it over a surfaceto or from a storage location or to an area where it is to be deployed.

The system is able to be compactly stored, while retaining the abilityto be quickly and easily deployed by a single person. For example,depressing base lock button 31 allows base arms 40 and 50 to unlock fromtheir stored position (parallel to trunk 20) and into their deployedbase configuration. Holding arm lock 61 is depressed to deploy holdingarms 60 in a position ready to receive one or more medical components.Folding arm 65 is located within a trunk storage groove 64 in the storedposition. The folding arm is deployed by engaging means for deployingthe folding arm, as discussed. The mobility arm is rotably engaged anddeployed by disengaging the lock mechanism by, for example, depressinghandle lock button 101. The handle grip 106 is deployed by rotating thegrip 106 relative to mobility arm 104. Each of wheels 80-81 are deployedwhen a walker configuration 12 is desired. A locking assembly mechanism,such as activatable button 63 provides one convenient means fordeploying and unlocking base arms 40 and 50.

As shown in FIG. 17, the trunk is generally three-sided, having majorsurfaces 27 (front) and 28 and 29 (sides) each connected by a curvedcorner. Each of the sides is configured to compactly receive arms 40 and50. Sides 28 and 29 are optionally contoured to receive a correspondingcontoured top surface (44 or 54) of base arms 40 and 50. The inventionencompasses base arms 30 and 40 that are substantially parallel to thelong axis of trunk 20 when stored. Maximum compactness is achieved byhaving the base arm contact or have a minimum separation distance fromthe trunk along the length of the base arms 40 and 50.

The invention includes means for hanging the IMS in its storedconfiguration. Hangers fastened to the wall are configured to receiveand hold the stored system 14. For example, the holder can firmlyconnect to a trunk portion, such as a portion that is between the trunktop 24 and end of the base arm wheel system. This connection is by anymeans known in the art for holding, such as hook and receiver (with thehook attached to the wall and/or the trunk), orifice, grooves, etc. Thestored system can also be hung from a ceiling by top end 24 or bottomend 22. The system and wall bracket is optimally configured by anglingthe wall-stored system such that one person can easily and readilyremove the system from the wall bracket by, for example, deploying basearms 40 and 50. In addition, the wall-mounted IMS can still be used toconnect a patient (such as a patient in bed) to medical components,while remaining ready to be ambulated as-needed.

For systems that are not base-deployable (or for base-deployablesystems, where the bare is in a deployed configuration), multiplesystems may be stacked/nested relative to each other, thereby providingcompact storage.

EXAMPLE 4 Wheel System

An important aspect of the invention that is a walker is the wheel andassociated wheel system that connects the wheels to the IMS. FIGS. 18-24provide close-up views of a wheel in a deployed 88 (FIGS. 19-21) andstorage 89 (FIGS. 22-24) configuration. The wheel system can be used inother systems where the ability to position a structure in differentlocations is important, such as a variety of stands (e.g., bicyclestands) furniture (tables, nightstands).

Referring to FIG. 19, a wheel system 79 comprises an outer wheel portion84 that is rotably connected to an inner wheel portion 86. This rotableconnection is by any means known in the art such as ball bearings, sothat the outer portion 84 can rotate relative to the inner portion 86.The inner wheel is connected to one end 91 of a wheel holder 90, and theother end 93 of wheel holder 90 is connected to ring mount 92, andoptionally pivotally connected to ring mount 92 (FIG. 21). The pivotalconnection between wheel holder 90 and ring mount 92 provides the wheeldeployable capability, wherein a rotating (orthogonal to the directionof wheel rolling) force can be applied to wheel outer portion 82,thereby pivoting the wheel and wheel holder 90 from the deployedposition shown in FIG. 19 to the stored position shown in FIG. 22.

Ring mount 92 is generally ring-shaped, having an inner-facing surface94 and outer facing surface 95. The inner surface 94 defines the edgesof a generally cylindrical passage or orifice 98 having a diametergreater than the diameter of the outermost surface of outer wheelportion 82, so that the wheel is positioned within the orifice 98defined by inner surface 94. In this example, wheel holder 90 is rotablyattached to the inner surface 94 of ring mount 92. Outer ring mountsurface 95 is connected to a wheel cover 85, and more specifically tocover wheel receiving surface 97. In the embodiment where the wheel iscapable of swiveling to point in the direction of an applied force, theconnection between outer ring mount surface 95 and wheel receivingsurface 97 is a rotable connection. The rotable connection isfacilitated by any means known in the art, including by ball bearingsthat permits rotation of ring mount 92 relative to wheel receivingsurface 97. The orientation of the wheel (e.g., the direction the wheelrolls) can be fixed in position by a lock that lockably engages ringmount 92. The ease of ring mount 92 to rotate relative to surface 97 canalso be controlled by any braking means known in the art. For example, arubber brake pad that brakingly engages ring mount outer surface 95provides a means for controlling the amount of force required to swivelthe wheel 79. Varying the frictional force that must be overcome inorder to swivel a wheel is useful in an IMS walker that provides greatersupport to the patient at the expense of requiring greater force tomaneuver the walker.

A wheel system that does not need to swivel can have fewer parts andconnections. For example, wheel holder 90 can be mounted directly towheel receiving surface 97 without the need for any cylindrical ringmount 92. Alternatively, the wheel holder 90 can connect directly to theend of the base arm.

FIG. 19 shows that wheel cover 85 is capable of connecting to a basearm, such as base arm 50, by sliding over the base arm and fastening thecover 85 to the base arm 50 by fastening means 87. Cover 85 can beshaped to have an open end capable of receiving base arm 40 or 50 and anopposite end 52 that surrounds the wheel, ensuring the wheel is able toroll without worrying about incidental contact from a foot or a person'sclothing, for example. FIGS. 20 and 21 provide different views of adeployed wheel 88 that is connected to a base arm. Any of the wheelsystems described herein can further comprise means for braking toprevent rolling movement of the IMS, including a rubber brake pad thatbrakingly engages rotating wheel portion 84.

FIG. 18 (and also FIG. 4) illustrates the first wheel 80 that isconnected to the trunk bottom 22. In this embodiment, the outer ringmount surface 95 contacts the orifice 23 disposed in the bottom-facingsurface of trunk bottom 22. In the embodiment where the first wheel canswivel, the connection between surfaces 23 and 95 is a rotableconnection.

FIGS. 22-24 show the wheel in its stored configuration 89. Inparticular, FIGS. 23-24 illustrate that the wheel is containedcompletely within wheel cover 85 thereby providing an increase insurface area contact between the IMS and supporting surface.

Any of the systems of the present invention can have additional featuressuch as built-in components (e.g., calculators), illumination systemsand/or electrical systems. One example of an electrical system isprovided in FIG. 25, where a plurality of electrical outlets 132 islocated on a trunk side surface 29. Power is provided by any means knownin the art, such as by an AC cord 135 connected to a conventional ACoutlet 138, wherein the AC cord 135 is electrically connected to each ofthe electrical outlets 132. The aspect depicted in FIG. 25 is notpractical when the system is moving. Accordingly, another aspect of theinvention is a power supply that is either attached to the systemexternally (for example, at one of the holders) or contained within thesystem (for example, disposed within trunk 20) and electricallyconnected to outlets 132. The power supply can be a primary or secondary(e.g., rechargeable) battery. The electrical connection to a DC sourcecan be by a DC power cord connector 136, as known in the art. Any one orboth of the AC and DC power connecting cords can be retractable, forstoring the length of electrical cord within the trunk body 20 when thecord is not in use. The electrical system can be a single outlet or amultiple outlet power strip connected to the front and/or back of thetrunk 20.

EXAMPLE 5 Mobility Assistance Devices

An example of a relatively basic IMS is provided in FIGS. 26-39. In thisembodiment, mobility arms 100 and 120 are stored, respectively, in arecess within each of base arms 40 and 50 (see FIGS. 26, 29, 30 and34A). Referring to FIGS. 26 and 29, the edges of the recess are definedby split base arms 40 and 50. In particular, the exterior-facing basearm section 2640 2650 and interior facing base arm section 2642 2652 ofsplit base arms 40 50 (respectively). Providing base arms 40 and 50having at least a portion that is split corresponding to 2640 and 2642for base arm 40, and 2650 and 2652 for base arm 50 provides in amobility arm stored configuration (see FIGS. 26-29), mobility arms 100and 120 that are substantially flushingly engaged within the confines ofbase arms 40 and 50, respectively. This conveniently stores the mobilityarms when patient mobility assistance is not required. Alternatively,mobility arms in a stored position may be positioned in or on otherlocations such as adjacent to a surface on base arms 40 and 50 (e.g.,see FIG. 1 for positioning next to inward-facing surfaces of 40 and 50).

Referring to FIGS. 30 and 31, deployment of mobility arms 100 and 120reveals recesses 3040 and 3050 in each of base arms 40 and 50,respectively. In an aspect the recess corresponds to a complete openingin base arms 40 and 50. Alternatively, a bottom may be provided in eachof base arms 40 and 50, such as a floor or ladder-type surface forsupporting mobility arms 100 and 120 in their stored configuration.Alternatively, in the embodiment where mobility arms 100 and 120 are notrotably connected to base arms 40 and 50 (e.g., permanently fixed inposition, or removably fixed in position such as by threads, tight-fit,or a locking mechanism), recesses in 40 and 50 are unnecessary.

A comparison of FIGS. 26-28, 33 to FIG. 36 illustrates the deploymentmechanism of holding arms 60 by axial movement of handle 2660. Handle2660 is operably connected to holders 60 such that movement of handle2660 along trunk 20 results in corresponding movement of holders 60.This is indicated in FIG. 27 by the up/down arrows adjacent to each of2660 and the top of holding arm 60. The dashed line indicates thatmotion of one to 2660 or 60 generates a corresponding motion in theother element 60 or 2660, respectively. In this example, two holdingarms 60 are provided whose height is controlled by motion of handle2660. Handle 2660 is infinitely adjustable in that it can be locked inany position along trunk 20 by locking or latch mechanisms known in theart. For example, a locking or latch mechanism may be released byinactivating a holding arm locking mechanism, such as a holding arm lockrelease button 2661 shown in FIG. 27. Similarly, a latching mechanismmay be used as known in the art, such as latches used for car trunkrelease mechanism, to facilitate movement of holder 2660 along the trunk20. In a holding arm stored position (see FIGS. 32, 35B, 35C and 36),handle 2660 is positioned to the lowest-possible axial position on trunk20, corresponding to top of holders 60 being substantially flush orflush with trunk top 24. Trunk top 24 may provide further support toholders 60 by at least partially enclosing holder 60 as holder 60 ismaneuvered up/down by slidably moving holder 2660 along trunk 20. Atop-view of the systems (FIG. 37) illustrates optional constraint ofholding arms 60 by a passage through trunk top 24.

Because handle 2660 is capable of positioning anywhere along trunk 20,the system is versatile in that any item supported by holding arm 60 maybe conveniently positioned so as to not hinder the view of a patientthat is receiving treatment or support by the IMS. In the examplesprovided herein (see FIGS. 26-28, and 33), handle 2660 is near themaximum deployed position (e.g., the highest axial position along trunk20), thereby ensuring any medical device supported by holder 70 does notinterfere with a patient who is maneuvering the system, such as by themobility arms 100 shown in FIG. 30.

In this example, holding arms 60 are both connected to the same handle2660, so that both arms 60 are simultaneously positioned. In anotherembodiment, an individual handle 2660 or a positioner may be providedfor each holding arm 60, thereby providing independent-positioning foreach arm 60. Handle 2660 may also provide a means for a caregiver tohelp maneuver the unit, or to help collapse the unit, such as byproviding a conveniently-shaped for receiving a hand and a related forcethat either positions the handle 2660 or for lifting the entirecollapsed unit and positioning it in its stored configuration, such asaffixed to a fastener connected to a wall, hung from a hanger connectedto a ceiling or maneuvered and stored within a confined-space.

With respect to the mobility arms 100 and 120 (see FIGS. 30-31) that areoptionally rotably engaged with base arms 40 and 50, respectively, arms100 and 120 lock in a deployed position that is about 90° with respectto horizontal for receiving a user's hands. Mobility arms 100 and 120are stored either by removing the arms (e.g., for mobility arms that maybe removably mated with base arms) or rotating them into a storedposition, such as within recesses 3040 and 3050, respectively formed bythe split portion of base arms 40 and 50.

Optionally, the system is further simplified for ease of use byautomatic deployment of pump mount 2670 (see FIGS. 26, 28-30 orequivalently collapsible support 65 of FIG. 1) when the base arms 40 and50 deploy by operably connecting pump mount 2670 to base arms 40 and/or50. This connection may be through one or more additional elements, suchas a slidable mechanism 2673 that slides along the trunk 20 with basearm 40/50 deployment and to which joint 2672 or mount 2670 is connected(see FIG. 28), such as by a rigid connection element within or along asurface of trunk 20. Such a configuration is an example of an “operableconnection” between mount 2670 and base arms 40 and/or 50. Pump mount2670 provides additional medical device support capacity, such as bysupport of relatively heavy medical devices such as an infusion pump,power supply, or the like. The capacity of mount 2670 to hold heavierdevices is further bolstered by joint 2672 that connects the mount 2670to the trunk 20 (FIG. 33). Alternatively, pump mount 2670 may beindependently deployed from deployment of base arms 40 and 50 as neededand exemplified in Example 1.

Additional support for base arms 40 and 50 upon deployment is providedby arm-trunk joint 3420 that connects each of the base arms 40 and 50with trunk 20 (FIG. 34B). FIG. 34A is a close-up view of a wheel 81connected to the end of a base arm 40 or 50. In this example, the wheelis connected to the system by a conventional caster 3410. Referring toFIG. 38A, in the conventional caster embodiment, the wheel 81 need notdeploy to a stored configuration, while the base arms 40 and 50 nestlein a position that is substantially parallel to trunk 20. A close-upview of the vertex region, where the base arms 40 and 50 meet trunkbottom 22, in a stored position is provided in FIG. 38B. Having wheel 80remain in a deployed position, even when stored, provides a convenientmeans for maneuvering the stored system by rolling the system along thefloor via wheel 80.

A close-up view of the wheel system is provided in FIGS. 39-40, where aconventional caster 3420 connects wheel 81 to base arm 40. To helpprevent unwanted interference with the wheel motion, a multi-spokedwheel connector 4010 optionally connects caster 3420 connection withbase arm 40.

EXAMPLE 6 Offset Vertical Trunk

The construction of a base comprising a pair of base arms 40 and 50 thatform a relatively-large base footprint in an IV pole-type settingprovides a great deal of flexibility in designing the trunk. Forexample, FIGS. 1-38 all relate to a trunk that in one manner or anotherextends over the base footprint by angling at least a portion of thetrunk relative to vertical. Another embodiment relates to asubstantially vertical trunk, such as a vertical trunk 20 illustrated inFIG. 41.

The general configuration in FIG. 41 is similar to the other illustratedembodiments, with base arms 40 and 50 forming a relatively large-areafootprint having one-side that is open-ended, with a trunk 20 andmobility arms 100 and 120 connected to base arms 40 and 50. Onedifference, however, is that trunk 20 is vertical (e.g., 90° withrespect to vertical). To provide added stability, vertex region 3900 mayextend past the point at which trunk 20 meets the base. Thisconfiguration is referred to as a “distal extension” of vertex region3900 relative to trunk 20.

“Vertex region” refers to the base footprint vertex from which the firstand second base arms extend, such as the region from which the frontwheel connects. Vertex region is generally the vertex opposite theopen-ended side of the base footprint. Accordingly, the vertex regionmay be an integral part of each of the base arms, or may refer to aseparate piece to which the base arms and/or trunk bottom attach. Inparticular, vertex region refers to the region from which where thetrunk extends and the base arms meet. In an aspect, the vertex regionextends significantly past the trunk 20 (FIG. 41). The vertex region3990 depicted in FIG. 41 has a front edge 3910 that extends to aposition that is distal to the trunk 20.

The various arms such as holding arms 60 and mobility arms 100 and 120are exemplified as being not connected to one another. In an embodiment,however, the top ends of holding arms 60 are connected to each other,thereby providing additional support as well as another location forsupporting or hanging any one or more medical devices. Similarly,mobility arms 100 and 120 are optionally connected to each other, suchas by a rigid bar for example, The bar can provide another location forreceiving a patient's hands in a fashion similar to the bar onconventional shopping carts, for example.

We claim:
 1. An infusion management mobility assistance devicecomprising: a) a trunk having at least one holder capable of holding atleast one medical component, said trunk having a bottom end and a topend; b) a base comprising a first base arm and a second base arm to forma two-sided base footprint with a vertex region, wherein one end of eachof the first and second base arms connect to form the vertex region, andwherein said trunk bottom end connects to said base at said vertexregion; c) a first wheel connected to said vertex region; d) a secondwheel connected to said first base arm; e) a third wheel connected tosaid second base arm, wherein each of the wheels are capable of stablycontacting a supporting surface on which the system rests; f) a firstmobility handle connected to said trunk for supporting one hand of apatient; and g) a second mobility handle connected to said trunk forsupporting the other hand of the patient; wherein the first and secondmobility handles are positioned in an area that vertically coincideswith a region defined by said two-sided base footprint.
 2. The device ofclaim 1 wherein said vertex region has a front edge that extends to aposition that is distal to said trunk.
 3. The device of claim 1, whereineach of the mobility handles are rotably connected to the trunk to allowthe handles to be rotated into a storage or a deployed position.
 4. Thedevice of claim 3, wherein in a mobility handle-stored position each ofsaid mobility handles are substantially parallel to a surface of saidtrunk.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the trunk is substantiallyvertical with respect to said base.
 6. The device of claim 1 wherein thetrunk forms an acute angle with respect to said base.
 7. The device ofclaim 6, wherein said acute angle has an angle relative to vertical isless than or equal to 20° and greater than or equal to 5° .
 8. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein each wheel contact point corresponds to avertex of a triangular base footprint, said footprint having an areathat is selected from a range of between about 1600 cm² and 4800 cm². 9.The device of claim 1 wherein the first base arm and second base form abase vertex angle, wherein said base vertex angle is greater than orequal to 50° and less than or equal to 90° .
 10. The device of claim 1,further comprising a holding arm operably connected to said trunk topend for supporting one or more medical devices.
 11. The device of claim10, wherein said holding arm is height-adjustable.
 12. The device ofclaim 11, further comprising a handle, wherein a) said handle isoperably connected to said holding arm; and b) said handle is slideablyconnected to said trunk, so that said handle is capable of axial travelalong said trunk, wherein said slideable axial travel provides saidheight-adjustability.
 13. The device of claim 1, wherein each of thebase arms are pivotally connected to the trunk for pivoting each of thebase arms into a base-storage or a base-deployed configuration.
 14. Thedevice of claim 13, further comprising a mount connected to said trunk,wherein said mount is capable of supporting one or more medical devices.15. The device of claim 14, wherein said mount is operably connected tosaid base arms so that deploying said base arms automatically deployssaid mount.
 16. The infusion management mobility assistance device ofclaim 1, further comprising a connector to connect the first and secondmobility handles to the trunk, the connector having one end connected tothe trunk and another end connected to each of the first and secondmobility handles.
 17. The infusion management mobility assistance deviceof claim 1, wherein each of the first and second mobility handlesconnect to and extend from said trunk.